Dubai’s biggest annual shopping and entertainment event is the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF). First held in 1996, it has grown into a global celebration of shopping, culture, and experiences, drawing millions of visitors looking for unique events and unbeatable deals.

Dates and Duration

DSF usually lasts four to five weeks, typically from early December to mid-January. The upcoming 2025-2026 edition is tentatively scheduled from December 15, 2025, to January 29, 2026, providing ample time for visitors to explore malls, markets, and cultural events across the city.

Main Attractions

From luxury stores at The Dubai Mall to traditional finds at the Gold Souk, DSF offers something for every shopper. Other popular places to shop include the Mall of the Emirates, Global Village, and Dubai Festival City Mall. For visitors looking for convenience, hotels like Avani Palm View Dubai are strategically located near festival venues and many key attractions, making it easy to enjoy everything the festival has to offer.

Theodore Scott, Dubai Gold Souk, CC BY 2.0

Exclusive Deals and Discounts

Shoppers can enjoy significant savings on jewellery, fashion, and electronics, with discounts up to 75%. Daily raffles, flash sales, and chances to win gold or luxury cars add nonstop excitement. After shopping, guests can relax and recharge at various accommodations across the city, perhaps even a luxurious sea view apartment in Dubai, before heading back to the festival.

Experiences Beyond Shopping

Retail therapy is only one aspect of DSF. Every evening is made exciting and unforgettable by street performances, live concerts by local and international celebrities, amazing fireworks displays, and themed food festivals. These events create a full celebration, giving visitors a chance to enjoy both Dubai’s vibrant culture and its amazing shopping.